Oakland Raiders might not get Carson Palmer's help in creating salary cap space

Oakland Tribune | Mar 26

Quarterback Carson Palmer helped the Raiders last year by restructuring his contract. He isn't intent upon doing so again this year, according to a report Monday.An ESPN report said Palmer is "highly unlikely" to redo a contract that calls for Palmer to earn $13 million in base salary this season.Last season, Palmer helped the Raiders save more than $9 million in salary-cap room by restructuring his contract.Palmer's base salary dropped from $12.5 million to $825,000, in exchange for an $11.675 million signing bonus spread out over five years. In terms of dollars, Palmer ultimately will receive the same amount he originally was scheduled to make. Palmer counts $15.335 million against the cap for 2013, with $2.335 million coming as a result of the prorated portion of the signing bonus.The Raiders have restructured a few contracts this offseason to free up cap room. Restructuring Palmer's contract a third time -- the first time came after the Raiders traded for him in 2011 -- would give the Raiders even more space.If Palmer balks, the Raiders could cut him or pay him under his current contract. Palmer would count $9.34 million against the cap if he is cut, though the Raiders would get out from under the $13 million base salary this season and $15 million base salary for 2014.Palmer was unavailable for comment. A Raiders spokesman said the team's policy is not to comment on contract situations.